By Lisa Morgan
The F-13, the local, all original, 5 member, So Cal reggae band is either named after (A) An alternate super fortress used by the United States Army Air Forces for the B-29 (B) Stephen King’s video game or (C) a strain of medical marijuana that produces lengthy, dense buds dripping with resin. Whatever the case, this band genuinely represents their musical influences from bands across the board such as Sublime, Bob Marley and the Wailers, Johnny Cash, Metallica, Slightly Stoopid, Santana, Buddy Holly, Red Hot Chili Peppers, UB40 and more. They take this string of varied influences and wrap it up quite neatly into a unique, grooving style of “roots” reggae that is becoming widely known as So Cal Reggae. This laid back Jamaican style rock made internationally popular by artists the likes of Bob Marley, allows lead vocalist and guitarist Adan to have a “truly spiritual experience and connection to the music” as well as with fellow band members and the audience.
The F-13 is a perfect fit for one of the largest reggae events ever to come to the desert at the Riverside County Fairgrounds, Fullenwinder auditorium. The 1st Annual Gregory Isaacs Reggae Fest sponsored by Joe’s Sushi, is a concert, in honor of Gregory Isaacs, an icon in the reggae music industry who believed in producing and infusing other musical influences such as pop and rock into “roots” reggae, will feature The F-13 alongside reggae greats, Third World. The concert will also showcase Gregory Isaac impersonator, Mr. Cool, and reggae artists Tribe-O, Sol Rising, Come Unity and Better Chemistry. Over 1,500 are expected to attend.
The spirit of The F-13’s music is as genuine as the people playing it. They are a brotherhood of one mind, focused on creating and playing the music they love. Prolific songwriters, F-13 already has quite the arsenal of originals available on demos that can be purchased on a donation basis. Proceeds from their demos, t-shirts and promotional items are going directly to the production of a professional quality CD. Having been offered a unique opportunity to record with Southern California Sound Studio who has their own label and production, the band is singular in this focus. Bass player, Matt Delara, sums it up this way: “I feel blessed to be part of a band with great musicians. I want to go as far as this music wants to take me.” That desire is echoed by fellow band members Adan Leon, lead vocals and guitar; Steve Pierson, vocals and keyboard; Chuyo Alvarez, rhythm guitar; and Noel Morin, drums and percussion. This band is already on their way having played at world renowned venues such as LA’s Whiskey A Go Go and Slidebar and Grille in Fontana, and has also opened for the hugely popular and influential Fortunate Youth. In the words of drummer Noel Morin, The F-13 believes they will continue to move forward and achieve their goals as they “stay humble” and grateful to play alongside many of their musical heroes.
Do not miss the opportunity to take part in this MMJ friendly event and be part of up and coming band’s future success. Tickets are available for pre-sale at $35 and at the door for $45. A word of pre-caution: Some counterfeit tickets have been sold so make sure you purchase yours directly from The F-13, Joe’s Sushi locations or call (760) 200-0250. Doors to the concert open at 4pm and tickets will be scanned. Counterfeits will NOT gain entry.
Find out more about The F-13 and listen to their music by following them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/SpecialBlendundersealevel.
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